FRONT Teaming Profiles
This page is designed to help facilitate connections between prospective proposers, which ARPA-H anticipates will be necessary to achieve the goals of the Functional Repair of Neocortical Tissue (FRONT) program. Prospective performers are encouraged (but not required) to form teams with varied technical expertise to submit a proposal.
If either you or your organization are interested in teaming, please create a profile via the ARPA-H Solutions Portal linked below. Your details will then be added to this page, which is publicly available.
Please note that by publishing the teaming profiles list, ARPA-H is not endorsing, sponsoring, or otherwise evaluating the qualifications of the individuals or organizations included here. Submissions to the teaming profiles list are reviewed and updated periodically.
FRONT Teaming Cards
To narrow the results in the Teaming Profiles List, please use the input below to filter results based on your search term. The list will filter as you type.
| Organization Name | Contact | Location | Description of Research Focus Area | Description of Teaming Partner | Technical Areas | |
| Accelerated Biosciences Corp. | Yuta Lee | yuta.lee@acceleratedbio.com | Philadelphia, PA | Human Trophoblast Stem Cells (hTSCs) are the earliest cells you can source without ethical issues. It has the holy grail characteristics of scale (85 PDL) and immune privilege (HLA-G). We can push hTSCs to neural progenitors in 24 hours with HLA-G intact. We have freedom to operate with over 120 patents and have already manufactured to GMP. We collaborated with the NIA using our exosomes to systematically suppress inflammation in vitro and in vivo animal studies. | We have the ideal starting stem cell source. We are looking to team up with partners with differentiation capabilities to neuronal subtypes. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| AFFOA | Guan Wang | gwang@affoa.org | Cambridge, MA | AFFOA develops thermally-drawn multifunctional fibers enabling high-channel neural sensing, stimulation, optics, and drug micro-fluidics; porous fiber lattices as vascularizable smart scaffolds; textile-integrated light/electrical neuromodulation wearables; and wash-durable woven power/data buses. DFDC and PAFF move these systems to GMP/MRL-7, supplying integrated interfaces and rehab tools that foster functional cortical graft maturation. | Seeking stem-cell and neurodevelopment labs that create vascularized cortical grafts; neurosurgical teams for large-animal and clinical implantation; experts in functional imaging, electrophysiology, and closed-loop algorithms; regulatory strategists versed in IDE/combination products; and GMP device makers to scale smart scaffold implants. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| age1 | Alex Colville | alex@age1.com | San Francisco, CA | Very interested in funding graft tissue generation and engraftment | Ambitious, pragmatic, and rigorous teams focused on tackling the core problems of graft tissue generation and engraftment | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| Battelle | Gabe Meister | meisterg@battelle.org | Columbus, OH | Battelle is the largest independently owned non-profit R&D organization in the world. Our scientists and engineers work together to solve the world's most challenging problems. For FRONT, we have novel gene delivery technology that can enable tissue engineering, neuromodulation technology to enhance tissue engraftment and function, and we can support additional Test and Evaluation in the domain of preclinical animal models and fit-for-purpose MPS systems. | We would look to team with partners seeking a multidisciplinary R&D organization that brings biology, chemistry, physics, engineering, and data science expertise to developing novel tissue regeneration challenges. | TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function, TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Battelle Memorial Institute | Matthew Neal | nealml@battelle.org | Columbus, OH | Battelle has a well-characterized in vitro bTBI model for cells and brain slices, extensive experience with multi-omics analysis to evaluate affected tissue comparisons in various animal models, including TBI-exposed tissues, and experience with neurostimulation and evaluating functional determinations of tissues following therapeutics. | Battelle is looking for partners with novel therapeutic solutions that would benefit from Battelle's experience in cell and animal models, multi-omics, quality and regulatory components, our in vitro TBI exposure system, and/or neurostimulation and functional analysis of cortical tissues. | TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| BE Therapeutics | Philip Ashton-Rickardt | philip@betherapeutics.com | New York, NY | 1. Neocortex tissue engineering from hiPSC-derived cortex cell types embedded in an extracellular matrix biomaterial (PiaGel) to produce laminar, vascularized and physiologically active cortex grafts. 2. Test cortex grafts in mouse and NHP models to identify functional and durable cortex grafts. Grafts will correct disease and provide de novo neuronal networks that encode new information. 3. Produce clinical grade cortex grafts based on GMP-iPSC and pia gels 4. Clinical plan for hPoC in stroke | 1. High Image Content Screening for High Throughput Screening. To accelerate the discovery of cortex grafts by screening for pia gels that best support NPC polarization and vascularization. 2. NHP models for validation of functional cortex neuronal networks. To directly demonstrate that neuronal from engrafted neocortex is the substrate for encoding and retrieval of new information. 3. CDMO partner(s) for the production of clinical cortex grafts 4. Clinical partners for hPoC. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| Cedars Sinai | Clive Svendsen | clive.svendsen@cshs.org | Los Angeles, CA | Transplantation of neural progenitors engineered to release GDNF into the motor cortex of patients with ALS (TA2). We also have a cGMP facility for neural cell and immune cell production (Task1), hypoimmune cell technology and big experience in translational studies into patients using iPSCs | Companies/academics with novel delivery platforms to deliver organdies or cells to the cortex with minimal damage. Bioengineering tools to help stabilize the graft and enhance survival following transplantation | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Celleo | Paul Dal Pozzo | paul.dalpozzo@celleo.com | Melbourne, Australia - but US subsidiary | We contribute intelligent production systems for the manufacture of cell therapies. Our mission is to enable cell therapies to deliver population-level health outcomes, realizing the extraordinary potential of humanity’s most powerful therapeutic modality – our cells, augmented. | We can only offer the tail formulate and fill for cell banking. | TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| Columbia University | Ke Cheng | keloveamy@gmail.com | New York City, NY | The Ke Cheng Lab at Columbia University in the City of New York works on exosomes and cell therapies for regenerative medicine applications. We use a combinations of cells, cell secretome, and biomaterials. Please visit our website at www.cheng-lab.net. | Biosensing, iPSC, neural tissue engineering, minimally invasive tissue implantation to the brain | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| Columbia University | Kristin Baldwin | kkbaldwin238@gmail.com | New York, NY | Rapid, reproducible and specific c generation of defined human neural cell types using combinatorially screen transcription factors. In vivo models to test function using brain blastocyst complementation to generate and test circuits derived from two species using behavior and anatomic/molecular tests. | I am looking for partners to help optimize transplantation of our defined neural cell types and to test our model (supported by data in Throesh...Baldwin, Cell 2024) that the time course of neural induction in vivo can be accelerated using internal signals and exogenous cues. We seek expertise in human transplantation and offer expertise in potential primate/rodent hybrid brain models for preclinical testing and optimization. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| Draper | Tyler Gerhardson | tgerhardson@draper.com | Cambridge, MA | Draper is a recognized leader in biotechnology, precision instrumentation, microelectronic & autonomous systems, image & data analytics, and guidance & navigation. We have 20+ years of expertise in custom microphysiological system (MPS) development to deliver datasets derived from relevant human and animal tissue models. We have developed systems that can provide controlled injury to brain tissue cultures comprised of iPSC neurons, microglia and astrocytes with clinical response correlation. | Neocortical precursor tissue matching, surgical engraftment and monitoring, GMP & GLP, animal behavior models | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| Duke University | Derek Southwell | derek.southwell@duke.edu | Durham, NC | Human neuroscience: dissection of human cortical circuits using ex vivo tissue platforms, development of cell- and virus-based strategies for manipulating human neural populations, studies of cellular engraftment in human tissues. Experience with novel cell type-targeting tools (CellREADR) that enable access, manipulation, monitoring of populations in human brain ex vivo. Neurosurgery: PI has active clinical practice and has been engaged in clinical trials of cell and gene therapies in humans. | Candidate cell products/biologics for application/testing. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| Evia Bio | Adam Joules | adam.joules@eviabio.com | Minneapolis, MN | Evia Bio is a leader in preservation of hiPS, neuronal, and precursor cells, developing solutions to reduce or eliminate dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) using clinically aligned, low-toxicity ingredients. Our protocols enhance viability, consistency, and minimize epigenetic changes—critical for preserving cellular quality across omics profiles. We are well positioned to support preservation and banking of cells and neuronal precursor tissues for scalable storage, GMP quality, and clinical translation. | Evia Bio is eager to join multidisciplinary teams aiming to manufacture neocortical tissue by contributing our expertise in preservation, cell banking, and cold chain optimization. We collaborate closely on protocol development for iPSC-derived and mixed cell populations, tailoring solutions for viability, consistency, and omics integrity across storage and handling stages. We welcome the opportunity to connect, explore alignment, and support a well- integrated, compelling solution summary. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Existential Heroism Institute | William James | existentialheroics@gmail.com | College Park, MD | Our research is primarily focused on producing diverse lines of brain-region-specific precursor cell types, which are essential for constructing graftable precursor neocortical tissue. These cells are a vital input to any tissue engineering pipeline focused on scaffold fabrication and bioprinting. | We are interested in teaming with partners who are focused on building tissue engineering pipelines that can use our precursor cells as an input. Additionally, consulting with teams who are optimizing engrafting procedures would help us more finely tune our production of precursor tissue to suit their needs. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| ExViva | Shupei Zhang | shupei@exvivabio.com | Bay area, CA | ExViva is building perfusion platforms to sustain and engineer brain tissues ex vivo. One of our current focus is generating vascularized, perfusabel neural grafts for transplantation, combining surgical access, perfusate formulation, and viability validation to support functional neural repair. | We are seeking collaborators in tissue engineering, bioengineering, and neuroscience to co-develop, preserve and test implantable neural grafts. Expertise in advanced imaging, electrophysiology, or in vivo validation is especially valuable. We're open to partnerships across academia, biotech, and clinical research. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| Frontier Bio Corporation | Samand Pashneh-Tala | sam@frontierbio.com | Hayward, CA | Frontier Bio creates lab-grown human tissues as an ethical alternative to animal studies and is paving the way to eliminate the organ transplant waitlist. Our research focuses on vascular, neural, and lung tissue engineering, including the development of in vitro models for drug testing and disease modeling, using 3D bioprinting and precision biofabrication techniques. | Frontier Bio seeks collaborators with expertise in iPSC-derived neural differentiation, cortical tissue assembly, surgical engraftment in small and large animal models, and behavioral testing. We are particularly interested in partners focused on host-graft integration, functional assessment, and regulatory strategy to complement our vascularization platform for neocortical grafts. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| Georgetown University School of Medicine | Kathy Maguire-Zeiss | km445@georgetown.edu | Washington, DC | The Neuroscience department at Georgetown spans cells to circuits to behavior. We have research focused on primary brain cells, animal models, and human subjects. Our main areas of research include synaptic and cellular plasticity, circuit plasticity, neuroinflammation, age-related neurologic disorders, and traumatic brain injury. We study basic mechanisms and novel therapeutic approaches in order to restore healthy brain function. | We are looking for collaborators that can enhance our approaches to better address ‘return of function’ using neuroengineering approaches. We are also interested in collaborations using iPSCs and organoids. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Ginkgo Bioworks | Jesse Dill | jdill@ginkgobioworks.com | Boston, MA | Ginkgo specializes in iPSC engineering and differentiation methods, and has high-throughput screening capabilities for cell imaging and characterization. | Our best fit is in support of TA1 tasks around iPSC production and differentiation; we are interested in partnering with organizations who can lead the preclinical and clinical development aspects. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| IMCS, INC. | Andrew Lee | lee@imcstips.com | Irmo, SC | IMCS is leader in enzymatic production of gangliosides. Gangliosides are key components of brain lipid bilayers, involved in cell-cell communication, and neuron regeneration. Knock out models result in neurological damage and severe loss in neuronal function. | IMCS would like to produce and provide gangliosides as media supplements in iPSCs and precursor tissues to enhance neuronal function or incorporate the glycolipids as part of the tissue storage, engraftment procedures to ensure improved neuronal integration. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| imec USA | Maksym Krutko | max.krutko@imec-int.com | Boston, MA | imec is a global R&D center for nanoelectronics and digital health technologies, advancing implantable and in vitro neurotechnologies. Capabilities include CMOS-based Neuropixels probes, high-density MEA platforms for electrophysiology, and organ-on-chip systems for brain modeling. imec integrates semiconductor design with biomedical systems to enable high-resolution neural interfacing and analysis. | imec seeks TA1 collaborators with expertise in cortical tissue engineering, graft-host circuit formation, and in vivo functional validation. We aim to partner with groups skilled in iPSC-derived neocortical grafts, synaptic integration, and behavioral or electrophysiological outcome measures to support TA2 co-development of neuroelectronic platforms and translational testing strategies. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| Imperial College London | Roberto Portillo Lara | r.portillo-lara@imperial.ac.uk | London, UK. | Our group at Imperial College London specialises in the development of tissue-engineered neural constructs for applications in regenerative medicine and neuroengineering; the engineering of in vitro and in vivo platforms to modulate neural fate through various biomimetic cues, including electrical stimulation, bioactive material scaffolds, and soluble factors; and the engineering of both wearable and implantable electrode systems with a fully polymeric and mechanically compliant design. | We are looking for partners that possess clinical expertise in the assessment of experimental therapeutics based on stem cell technology, biomaterial scaffolds, and tissue engineering and regenerative medicine strategies; expertise in experimental and translational neuroscience, with a focus on neurodevelopment and neural regeneration and repair; and expertise in cellular and molecular profiling techniques, as well as in vivo imaging techniques to track cell fate and tissue development. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| IQVIA | Marcine Snyder | marcine.snyder@iqvia.com | Falls Church, VA | IQVIA is a global leader in clinical research, real-world data, and AI and advanced analytics. We serve government and life sciences organizations to accelerate innovation across therapeutic areas. We bring significant expertise in brain health, including traumatic brain injury (TBI), evidence generation, IND readiness, and predictive analytics to advance health solutions from discovery to impact. | For ARPA-H FRONT, IQVIA seeks to join a consortium with deep scientific expertise in areas such as iPSC biology, neural tissue engineering, preclinical modeling, and surgical innovation. We offer complementary strengths in regulatory strategy, clinical trial planning to support IND readiness, real-world data, and IQVIA Healthcare-Grade AI to enable translational progress and scalable impact aligned with the program’s goals. | TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function, TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| JHU | ANNIE KATHURIA | akathur1@jh.edu | Baltimore, MD | We engineer human brain and neurovascular organoids from patient-derived iPSCs to model and restore cortical function. Our platforms include multi-region brain organoids (MRBO), stress-responsive cortico–autonomic systems (CHAO), and vascularized barrier-integrated constructs. These models enable disease modeling, neuromodulation, and tissue repair, with a focus on functional integration and synaptic restoration after injury. We used human iPSCs to generate brain cortical structures. | Surgical Clinical Team | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Kenai Therapeutics | Valeria Yartseva | vyartseva@kenaitx.com | San Diego, CA | Kenai is developing an iPSC-derived dopaminergic cell therapy for Parkinson’s disease that restores motor function by reconstituting the basal ganglia circuit, enabling durable integration, regulated dopamine release, and restores functional input to the motor cortex | Our technology restores upstream input to the motor cortex, and we seek collaborators who can apply this approach toward frontal cortex repair. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | Kate Galloway | katiegal@mit.edu | Cambridge, MA | We can make neurons from primary mouse and human fibroblasts. We have demonstrated implantation and survival of these into the central nervous system of mice. Ref: https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S2405471225000390 Ref: https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S2405471225000389 | Looking for those with measurement tools for functional engraftment and/or behavioral evaluation. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| MPR Associates | Eric Claude | eclaude@mpr.com | Alexandria, VA | MPR's Health and Life Science Team provides services for design, development, engineering, and testing for medical device, diagnostics, biopharma and cellular/regenerative therapies. We help innovators accelerate time to market with novel medical technologies, reduce risk for patients, improve operational efficiencies, and ensure regulatory compliance. With our team of 250 engineers, designers, and scientists, MPR’s expertise supports translation of innovations from lab to production. | MPR seeks to partner with Performers or other Spokes who wish to leverage our capabilities to reduce risk and accelerate commercialization including through: technology evaluation, solution definition, and concept design; rapid development for bench-top feasibility, preclinical, and human clinical studies; product commercialization planning and road-mapping; design and development for rapid scale-up, automation, and deployment; and development of FDA-required documentation. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| MyStemCells.life | David Medrano | dmedrano@mystemcells.life | Dallas, TX | using the patients own blood to make induced pluripotent stem cells and then further differentiating them into progenitor cells | We are looking for a neocortex tissue expert researcher in this area. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| Nanyang Technological University | Richard She | richardsheshe@gmail.com | Singapore, Singapore | CRISPR engineering of iPSCs | Anyone interested in using the latest CRISPR tools to improve the functional properties and survival of neuronal grafts | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| New York University | Roy Maimon | roy.maimon@nyu.edu | New York City, NY | New York University (NYU) is a leader in interdisciplinary biomedical innovation. Our current team integrate engineering, neuroscience, and bioinformatics to develop high-impact therapies for inducing brain regeneration and repair. | As part of New York University (NYU), a leading hub for interdisciplinary innovation, we are seeking partners who bring complementary expertise in areas such as tissue manufacturing, advanced structural imaging, behavior and clinical translation. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| NEXI Biotech | Case Lorance | Loranceconsulting@gmail.com | Gainesville, FL | Our organization develops modular in vitro platforms to assess neural circuit function using high-resolution electrophysiology. We focus on quantifying functional connectivity, tissue integration, and pharmacological response across model systems to support CNS repair and regeneration strategies. | We are seeking partners with expertise in cortical tissue engineering, large animal behavioral neuroscience, and regulatory/GMP readiness. Ideal collaborators can generate clinically relevant neocortical precursor tissue or run focal cortical injury models in NHPs or swine. We also welcome collaborators with experience in ELSI, patient engagement, or FDA IND-enabling studies. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| NieuHealth | Zakreya Mahamud | zakreyam27@gmail.com | San Francisco, CA | Our device (NieuRobot) is meant to safely enable optogenetic and photo-ablative capabilities at the neocortex with layer level specificity. The broad four categories of research using our device are as follows: 1. Targeted clearing of glial tissue & damaged cells. 2. Functionalizing graft supplied neuronal cells. 3. Training neurons per region for site specific circuits. 4. Validating efficacy of neuronal integration. | Our organization is looking to partner with teams seeking a scalable solution to removing scar tissue that would otherwise hinder surgical engraftment of the precursor tissue. As well as alleviating the difficulty involved with differentiating the neocortical tissue post-engraftment. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| NYU Grossman School of Medicine | Robert Froemke | robert.froemke@med.nyu.edu | New York, NY | Studies of functional integration and cortical synaptic plasticity, including neural and behavioral readouts of cortical repair and improved performance | Molecular or surgical expertise | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| R3 Biotechnologies, Inc | John Schloendorn | john@r3-bio.com | San Juan, PR | We have capabilities in pluripotent stem cell derivation, naive pluripotency, cell differentiation, genome editing & in vivo. We do not plan to derive our own therapeutic grafts, but can contribute technical help and existing materials, cell lines etc in our focus areas. | We're looking for partners who derive therapeutics and need technical help or materials in our focus areas. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| RenewalBio | vladislav krupalnik | vladik@renewal.bio | Rehovot, Isreal | RenewalBio leverages Stembroid models that mimic natural embryonic development to produce authentic human cells, bypassing reliance on donor tissues or adult stem cells. Stembroid technology uses induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) as the starting material to create patient transplantable cells by mimicking natural development through 3D organoid models. Our technology enables the generation of best-in-class neural precursors and also viable graft tissue for transplantation. | We are looking for partners that can help with the hypoimmune cell source and GMP capabilities for manufacturing ones, CDMOs that are oriented for cell therapy, and companies that are working on methods of tissue validation. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Rice university | Chong Xie | xiechong@gmail.com | Houston, TX | Electrophysiology using implanted flexible electrodes. | We have expertise in TA2 and look for a graft team graft team. | TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| San Diego Regenerative Medicine Institute | Xuejun Parsons | jparsons001@san.rr.com | San Diego, CA | San Diego Regenerative Medicine Institute (sdrmi.org) is focused on human embryonic stem cell-based advanced regenerative medicine therapies to address the unmet medical needs for a wide range of neurological and heart diseases. SDRMi is a major innovator in the regenerative medicine market, holding the patents/IP for large scale production of high quality clinical grade hESC-based human neuronal and heart cell therapy products for neuron/heart tissue repair/regeneration and bio-fabrication. | SDRMI is looking for partners and collaborations that provide resources and funding | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| Scintillon Research Institute | Guoping Fan | guopingfan@scintillon.org | San diego, CA | Epigenetics, Stem cells, Neural development and neurodegeneration | Neurosurgeon and neurologist as well as neuroscientist working on brain injury | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| Sophrosyne Bio | Jesse Horwitz | jesse@sophrosynebio.com | NEW YORK, NY | We are working to create developmentally realistic cortical tissue grafts | The work to hopefully validate these grafts functionally, secure regulatory approval for them, and get them to market would be quite substantial, and we're interested in talking with potential partners interested in different pieces of this work | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Stanford University | Ryann Fame | fame@stanford.edu | Stanford, CA | Neural fate transitions in vivo: Neurectoderm to neuroepithelial specification Cell-intrinsic programs of corticogenesis / migration/ projection Neural stem cell niche (hu, pig, mus): Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) as cell-extrinsic signals supporting neurogenesis (proteins, ions, metabolites) Harnessing choroid plexus to supply CSF solutes to neural progenitors. Surgical approaches in young brain (mus): In utero CSF collection/ analysis Ultrasound-guided cell and tissue delivery (E9-postnatal) | Committed, collaborative, communicative teams with expertise in directed differentiation, tissue engineering, and electrophysiological / behavioral evaluation of grafts. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| Stanford University | Kyle Loh | kyleloh@stanford.edu | Stanford, CA | We have developed methods to differentiate human pluripotent stem cells into artery and vein endothelial cells (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35738284/), as well as forebrain and hindbrain neurons (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40631129/). | Anything! | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Syntax Bio, Inc | Brad Merrill | brad@cellgorithm.com | Chicago, IL | Syntax’s technology, "Cellgorithms," enable robust conversion of iPSCs into defined cell types via programmable epigenetic circuits. By working cell-autonomously, it can program multiple different cell differentiations in a one-pot cell culture. It can activate nearly any endogenous gene, providing the opportunity to customize the underlying biology of differentiated cells to meet engineering specifications. We used it for diverse target cell types, including a neuronal progenitor. | We are looking for partners who see the value of innovating on the generation of cells and have needs for sourcing cells with known biological properties. Examples may include different types of neural precursors all generated in the same media, neuronal precursors with controlled differentiation biases, or vascular/hematopoietic/neuronal cell types from a single iPSC line. We are looking for partners with expertise for TA2 (physiology, surgery, transplantation) and need better cell engineering. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| The Rockefeller University | Alex Epstein | alexander.epstein96@gmail.com | New York, NY | We specialize in high-throughput single-cell genomics to monitor cell population changes in the brain during the aging process. This technology will be especially useful for production of graft precursor tissues, to confirm that the tissue organization and cell subtype distribution corresponds to young brain tissue. | I will be graduating from my PhD shortly and would be interested to join a team with a strategy to produce precursor tissues and implant surgical grafts, which needs support in in quality control and optimization of the process to mimic young healthy tissue as closely as possible. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| Triple Ring Technologies | Vrad Levering | vlevering@tripleringtech.com | Newark, CA | Triple Ring Technologies is a leading partner in developing science-driven products across medtech and life sciences. Our interdisciplinary team, including many PhDs, excels in advancing technologies to FDA approval while collaborating with academic researchers. We have engaged with ARPA-H, both as subcontractors and primary awardees. We offer services for development of devices such as surgical tools to aid in graft delivery, assay development, and implantable sensors. ISO 13485 certified. | We partner with innovators to solve tough problems and create new businesses. From concept to FDA submission and commercialization, we handle technology development and redesign, as well as complex system integration. We are looking for teaming partners that could use our collaborative assistance to design enabling devices and technologies while navigating the FDA regulatory pathway. We have acted as primary, subcontractor, or vendor on previous submissions. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function, TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Trylle Biologics, Inc. | Frank Zeigler | info@trylleinc.com | Carlsbad, CA | Trylle Biologics functional biomaterials platform is based on tunable, GMP-grade, human-cell-derived ECM scaffolds and hydrogels capable of mimicking the native brain extracellular matrix. | Trylle seeks partners with expertise in neural tissue engineering, cortical transplantation, electrophysiology, and BMI integration—particularly teams advancing TA1–TA3 solutions needing tunable ECM scaffolds or dielectric biomaterials. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| Unicorn Biotechnologies | Jonathan (Jack) Reid | jack.reid@unicornb.io | Newark, NJ | Unicorn Bio builds autonomous cell manufacturing insturments and end-to-end solutions for iPSC-derived cell, tissue, and organ manufacturing. Our R&D focuses on two thrusts. 1) engineered systems to mechanize cellular R&D and bioproduction (robotics & hardware, sensing and control systems, machine intelligence) and 2) iPSC-based molecular engineering (genetic control switches, cell line engineering, bioprocess & engineered tissue development). | We are looking for three things. 1) An organization with a neocortical graft concept in search of a manufacturing solution - blue sky ideas welcome. 2) An organization strong in iPSC/protocol development looking for assistance in scalable engineered tissue development. 3) Anyone using manual TC who wants to decouple cellular production from manual labor. We are a nimble team of scientists, engineers, and do-ers keen to see if we can help you out in any way! | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| University of Colorado/Children's Hospital Colorado | Kevin Ess | kevin.ess@childrenscolorado.org | Denver, CO | We have focused on developmental neuroscience for 20 years, moving from mouse models of human genetic disease to iPSC based models. These include organoids and blood brain models in collaboration with biomedical engineers. Our work is now extremely well positioned for application to neural regeneration. This technology will be applicable to neurological issues from a multitude of causes including trauma, epilepsy, and stroke. | Collaboration in graft vascularization and function. Large animal models. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| University of Georgia | Lohitash Karumbaiah | lohitash@uga.edu | Athens, GA | We have developed a novel brain tissue replacement scaffold that has demonstrated chronic neuroprotection and large-scale cellular and vascular repair in severe traumatic brain injury lesions. Our team of investigators have expertise in small and large animal models of ischemic stroke and traumatic brain injuries. | We are looking for potential teaming partners with neurobiology and systems neuroscience expertise. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | Daniel Llano | d-llano@illinois.edu | Urbana, IL, IL | Novel organoid development, brain/neurovascular imaging, neurophysiology | Clinical implementation and clinical assessment of graft integration | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | HYUNJOON KONG | kong0630@gmail.com | Urbana-Champaign, IL | We aim to develop scalable, reproducible biomanufacturing of stem cell-derived neural grafts for brain repair. Using our patented soft robotics platform, we assemble 2D cell sheets with exosome-driven cues to generate functional, transplantable neural tissue for clinical translation and precision neuroregeneration. | We seek clinical and industry partners to advance the scalable biomanufacturing of stem cell-derived neural grafts and enable their validation in large animal models. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| University of Kansas School of Medicine | John Stanford | jstanford@kumc.edu | Kansas City, KS | We bring expertise in cortical mapping and measuring circuit connectivity over time during behavioral tasks in rats and monkeys using electrophysiological and anatomical methods. We have extended functional behavioral and physiological measures of cortical connectivity and cortical plasticity from forelimb to orolingual motor tasks. Our research areas include cortical plasticity and rehabilitation in aging, stroke, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). | We will be working with partners at other organizations who bring expertise in cell therapy and human cell-based cortical assembloids, as well as large animal neurosurgery, GLP/GMP, and clinical trials. We are looking for potential partners with expertise in ELSI and patient engagement, commercialization, and regulatory processes. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| University of Maryland Baltimore | Piotr Walczak | Pwalczak@som.umaryland.edu | Baltimore, MD | Our Program on Image-Guided Neurointerventions develops small and large animal models of neurological diseases to advance precision therapies. We focus on image-guided drug and stem cell delivery to the brain, including targeted blood-brain barrier opening. Our work also includes organoid implantation and translational strategies bridging preclinical innovation with clinical application. | Teams with protocols for generation of regionally-specific organoids | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| University of Maryland, Baltimore | Miroslaw Janowski | miroslaw.janowski@som.umaryland.edu | Baltimore, MD | My neurosurgical research focuses on large animal models of brain diseases, particularly stroke, also through Ti-com, a company I co-founded and co-own. Our porcine stroke induction technology serves clients including Medtronic, startups, and academic institutions. This platform is ideal for testing cortical grafts and pairs with intravital microscopy and functional assessments (EEG, fMRI, hyperpolarized MRI). I also work in regenerative medicine: cell transplantation and genome editing. | We develop cortical organoids in vitro and explore neocortical tissue replacement therapies in small animals. Strategic collaboration with stem cell and neuroscience biology groups would be highly advantageous, particularly those developing advanced multilayer human cortical grafts and interested in parallel development of porcine or other large animal grafts, which would be optimally positioned for comprehensive testing their clinic-ready solutions in our large animal stroke models. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| University of Michigan | Kevin Chen | kechen@med.umich.edu | Ann Arbor, MI | My research centers on interneuron pathology and neural hyperactivity in neurodegenerative disorders (Alzheimer's disease and ALS). Our vision is the development of a cell therapy to restore inhibitory regulation in neurodegenerative disease. We have expertise using iPSC/in vitro models for mechanistic studies. We also have expertise with intracranial cell transplants in rodent models and large animals (sheep, non-human primates), along with behavioral tests (memory/cognition and motor tasks). | We seek team members who can provide precursor material that can recapitulate the full cellular complement of a tissue graft (including relevant neuronal cell types, glia, etc.) and establish a GMP-grade bank of cells/tissue. While we could perform surgical optimization and pre-clinical testing/behavior, experience with the IND process and translation to early clinical trials would also be useful. | TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| University of Texas Health San Antonio, Joe R. & Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine | Marcel Daadi | mdaadi@neoneuron.org | San Antonio, TX | We are developing neural precursor cell transplantation therapy for replacing brain cells lost to injuries or diseases. We developed novel neural cell production method from pluripotent stem cells that functionally engraft, repair grey and white matters and blood brain barrier (neurovascular unit). Our neural cells functionally integrated into the cortex of nonhuman primates with neocortical injury and improved cognitive and sensorimotor performances, sleep quality and emotional dysfunctions. | We are looking for potential teaming partners, that could enhance our cell product, through novel product combinations, novel formulations for delivery and preservation, biomarkers for longitudinal monitoring, scaling up and GMP production, performing GLP IND enabling studies, regulatory support for IND submissions or other synergistic partnerships. We can also offer image-guided cell delivery into the brain. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| Weill Cornell Medicine | Ben Huang | bsh2002@med.cornell.edu | New York City, NY | Functional characterization of graft brain tissue in awake behaving animal models through in vivo imaging and electrophysiology. | Partners with graft precursor tissues in need of direct in vivo functional characterization. | TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| X-Therma Inc. | Mark Kline | mkline@x-therma.com | Berkeley, CA | We have been at the forefront of practical and implementable technology for preserving cells, tissues, and organs. Recently, we completed the World's first subzero transport of organs, and across the Atlantic. This trip is now a routine part of research for us. We also have the Breakthrough Device Designation from the FDA. We can push the preservation of whole kidneys to multiple days, instead of just hours. Let's chat on all of our wide-ranging abilities! | To assist in your preservation needs, including fresh never frozen shipping with XT-Novo and TimeSeal, and deep freezing for banks of cells and tissues. Our products are based on a new cryoprotectant we developed from peptoids. We will run you through a presentation to help you learn more :) | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |